Seven Panicked Crew Jump From Listing Cargo Ship Off Lebanon

A chaotic situation aboard a cargo ship off the coast of Lebanon led to seven crewmembers jumping into the ocean and requiring a rescue overnight. Lebanese authorities are saying the ship has now been stabilized, reducing the risk of the ship capsizing.

Initial reports said the cargo had shifted on the vessel, causing the list. When the authorities contacted the captain, he said the situation was under control and that they did not require assistance. However, later reports said the ship had possibly grounded as it was approaching Sidon. The port has a maximum draft of 8 meters, but the ship was reported to be at 9 meters due to water ingress and the shifting cargo.

When the list became severe, seven of the crewmembers chose to jump into the water, panicking and fearing the ship was in imminent danger of capsizing. The authorities report the captain called for assistance, and they rescued the seven crewmembers from the water. Nine other crewmembers, including the captain, remained aboard the vessel.

The authorities are now saying the vessel had malfunctioned and the crew failed to detect water ingress, primarily in the number 5 cargo hold. When they boarded the vessel, they reported it was nearly impossible to walk due to the angles, and they detected 3.5 to 4 meters (11.5 to 13 feet) of water in the hold. An emergency pumping operation commenced, and they were able to lower the water level to between 50 and 60 centimeters (1.6 to 2 feet).

This story was originally published by The Maritime Executive. Read the full story at The Maritime Executive →